Apple Approves Spotify App External Payment Links

Spotify’s iOS app update now supports Spotify app external payment links, a feature made possible after a U.S. court forced Apple to allow external purchases. Version 9.0.40 lets U.S. users see subscription pricing and redirect to Spotify’s website for payment, bypassing Apple’s 30 percent commission. This marks a major win for consumer choice and sets a precedent for other developers.

In a landmark decision, Apple approves Spotify app update that enables Spotify app external payment links for U.S. customers. The change follows Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers’ order halting Apple’s in-app purchase fees on external transactions. Spotify spokesperson Jeanne Moran called it “a victory for consumers, artists, creators, and authors” and confirmed the rollout has begun.

What do Spotify App External Payment Links Mean for Users

With Spotify app external payment links, U.S. listeners can choose a subscription plan inside the app and tap a link to complete payment on Spotify’s website. This feature lets subscribers avoid the previous 30 percent App Store fee and access lower prices and promotional offers. Users will see clear subscription tiers—Individual, Duo, Family, Student—and external links beside each option. The update also paves the way for Spotify to transparently advertise regional discounts and bundled deals without in-app restrictions.

Implications for Developers

The move by Apple signals a broader shift in App Store policy, encouraging other major apps to adopt a similar model to Spotify’s app external payment links. Patreon and Epic Games plan similar updates, leveraging new App Store guidelines that permit buttons and links for external payments. Developers can now promote subscription pricing directly, improve conversion rates, and reduce reliance on Apple’s payment infrastructure. This change may lead to more competitive app-based marketplaces, as smaller creators gain the flexibility to set custom pricing and avoid steep commissions.

Regulatory Background

Judge Gonzalez Rogers’ ruling in Epic v. Apple forced Apple to modify its App Store rules, ending bans on external purchase links and prohibiting new fees on off-App Store transactions. Despite Apple’s intent to appeal, the company confirmed compliance for U.S. apps, effective immediately. The revised guidelines now allow developers to embed Spotify app external payment links without triggering “scary” pop-ups or service charges.

Conclusion

Spotify’s latest update proves that Spotify app external payment links can coexist within Apple’s ecosystem, offering users transparency and savings. While Apple approves Spotify app update, the landscape of in-app commerce is transforming, empowering developers to bypass restrictive fees and deliver direct value to consumers. As more apps integrate external payment options, the App Store may evolve into a more open and competitive platform for digital services.

About the Author: Sarah Zimmerman is a seasoned crypto and Web3 news writer passionate about uncovering the latest developments in the digital asset space. With years of hands-on experience covering blockchain innovations, cryptocurrency trends, and decentralized technologies, she strives to deliver insightful and balanced news that empowers her readers. Her work is dedicated to demystifying complex topics and keeping you informed about the ever-evolving world of technology.